Date:04/07/2009 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2009/07/04/stories/2009070451061600.htm

Back Cabinet nod for change in Rubber Act

New Delhi, July 3

The Union Cabinet on Thursday approved an amendment to the Rubber Act of 1947, which among other provisions, entails change in the definition of a small grower. The Rubber Amendment Bill would be introduced in the ensuing session of Parliament. This was stated by the Information and Broadcasting Minister, Ms Ambika Soni, who was briefing reporters after a Cabinet meeting. The amendment will empower state-owned Rubber Board to implement quality standards in marking, labelli ng and packing of various types of rubber. It proposes setting up a Rubber Development fund. The amendment will also empower the Centre to impose, reduce or grant exemptions from cess on rubber produced in and exported from India. The Centre will be able to nominate representatives to the Rubber Board.

— Our Bureau